AutoCodes – Generic – C1426

C1426 Code - Stop Light Switch Off Stuck Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Skid Control ECU (Brake Actuator Assembly) receives stop light switch signals and uses them to determine whether or not the brakes are applied. Common causes include Blown Stop Light Switch Fuse, Faulty Stop Light Switch, Stop Light Switch harness is open or shorted. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
C1426 indicates Stop Light Switch Off Stuck Malfunction.
Common causes
Common causes include Blown Stop Light Switch Fuse, Faulty Stop Light Switch, Stop Light Switch harness is open or shorted.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 18,309
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jan 29, 2023
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Code C1426 Description

The Skid Control ECU (Brake Actuator Assembly) receives stop light switch signals and uses them to determine whether or not the brakes are applied. The Skid Control ECU has a detection circuit that it uses to detect a short in the stop light input line or the ground line of the stop light circuit with the stop light switch on (brake pedal depressed). If the Skid Control ECU detects a short in this circuit, it will store the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) C1426.
OBDII Code C1426 - Stop Light Switch Off Stuck Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
C1426 Code - Stop Light Switch Off Stuck Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1426?

  • Blown Stop Light Switch Fuse
  • Faulty Stop Light Switch
  • Stop Light Switch harness is open or shorted
  • Stop Light Switch circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Skid Control ECU (Brake Actuator Assembly)

How to Fix the DTC C1426?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the C1426 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the C1426 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

Get the C1426 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about C1426 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C1426 (Stop Light Switch Off Stuck Malfunction)?

- Common symptoms include the brake lights staying on continuously, difficulty shifting gears, and the inability to engage cruise control.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C1426?

- The code C1426 can be caused by a faulty stop light switch, a wiring issue in the brake light circuit, or a malfunction in the brake pedal position sensor.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code C1426?

- To diagnose the issue, start by checking the stop light switch for proper operation, inspecting the wiring for any damage or loose connections, and testing the brake pedal position sensor using a multimeter.

4. Can I continue driving with OBDII code C1426?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with OBDII code C1426 as it can affect the proper functioning of the brake lights and other safety features in the vehicle.

5. How can I repair OBDII code C1426?

- The repair for code C1426 typically involves replacing the faulty stop light switch, repairing any damaged wiring, or recalibrating the brake pedal position sensor.

6. Is OBDII code C1426 a serious issue?

- While code C1426 is not a critical issue that will cause immediate danger, it should be addressed promptly to ensure the proper operation of the vehicle's brake lights and related systems.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code C1426 at home?

- Depending on your level of automotive repair experience, fixing OBDII code C1426 at home is possible by following step-by-step repair guides and using the necessary tools.

8. Will resetting the OBDII system clear code C1426?

- Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear code C1426, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear after driving the vehicle.

9. How long does it take to repair OBDII code C1426?

- The repair time for OBDII code C1426 can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the complexity of the repair, but it typically takes a few hours to complete.

10. Can OBDII code C1426 affect the vehicle's performance?

- While OBDII code C1426 may not directly affect the vehicle's performance, it can impact safety features like brake lights and cruise control, leading to potential issues while driving.

Discuss the causes and fixes for C1426 OBDII Code

  • Hello i have a 2015 toyota corolla altis ..
    i bought 2 pairs of tailights from eagleeyes but the harness did not suits the original ones .. so i had to cut the switch from the original and from the new tailights and wire them together ..
    but since then, the abs light comes on the dashboard and when i depress the brakes on 50 70 km/h the car start to vibrat and the acceleration padle is not working properly i feel like the car is weak .. what should i do?

  • You should put the wires back the way it was, and ask the taillights manufacture for more information on how to installed the lights.

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